Gas, electric, or neither: The best cooktops, according to Consumer Reports

With dozens of stoves on the market that all look the same, it’s hard to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve turned to our friends at Consumer Reports, who put tons of different gas, electric, and induction cooktops through expert testing to find the best ones.

Continue reading to see which ones are their favorites—and why.

Credit: KitchenAid

Priced from $1,099, this 30-inch electric smoothtop cooktop offers five elements, including two high-power options and expandable ones for flexible cookware. It stands out for excellent low-heat performance and very good high-heat output, and CR liked its straightforward control knobs.

Credit: Kitchen Aid

Starting at $2,248, this 30-inch electric smoothtop cooktop features four elements, two of them high-power, along with expandable elements and a built-in downdraft vent. Both high- and low-heat performance are excellent, and CR pointed out that its stainless steel trim adds a more premium look.

Credit: Maytag

From $1,118, this 30-inch electric smoothtop cooktop includes four elements, some of which are expandable, and a bridge element that links the front and rear left burners for the included griddle pan. CR reported it has very good performance at both high and low heat and is a good option for cooks who want versatility at a moderate price.

Credit: Home Depot

Priced from $1,045, this 30-inch gas cooktop comes with five burners, including two high-power burners, continuous grates, and excellent low-heat control. It also has Wi-Fi connectivity, lighted knobs, and a stainless steel surface.

Credit: Monogram

Starting at $2,500, this 30-inch gas cooktop features five burners with two high-power options, continuous grates, and a stainless steel surface. It delivers very good high-heat performance and excellent low-heat control, according to CR, and includes a griddle pan.

Credit: LG

Priced at $1,799, this 30-inch induction cooktop is CR’s highest rated in the category. It performs reliably well at low and high heats and has child locks, which is especially important for induction cooktops.